problems mounting samples

[MATE45]

For some odd reason over the last week, ive had trouble mounting samples. I use a little bit of epoxy on the face and then fill the back end with bakelite. the hydraulic fluid ran out the othr week but i fixed that problem and the jack works fine now. i did get a new order of bakelite in in the last month but ive been able to use it. I leave the pressure on after the sample is done cooking, and cool it with ceramic pieces. ive also tried slowly adding presure at the start to let the bakelite melt, but that also has not worked. i usually jack the pressure up to 4200 psi of the start. Any tips or adivce.

 

[dbooker630]

Check your mounting press heater, it may be shot. There is nothing wrong with your mounting method.

 

[EdStainless]

I had part of the element in a heater fail once. The tops (non-working end) of the mounts looked great, but the faces wouldn't fully set.
What do you use under the die to support it and minimize heat loss?

= = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = =
Still trying to help you stop corrosion.
formerly Trent Tube, now Plymouth Tube
eblessman@plymouth.com
or edstainless@earthlink.net

 

[MATE45]

nothing really tries to minimize heat loss, i put two ceramic circular plates on after during the cooling process. it wouldnt have to do with the level of powder i use, ive tried to minimize the amount of powder i use, thanks for the info.

 

[cocobolorose]

I mount a lot of samples in bakelite, but am not familiar with your use of epoxy. Are you sure the epoxy is fully cured and isn't outgassing in the process? I've found any moisture in the enclosure will give you problems.